Celestron Universal Mounting Plates Review

Let’s Dive into Celestron Universal Mounting Plates

For any serious astronomer, the ability to customize and expand the capabilities of their telescope mount is paramount. Enter the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates, specifically the CG-5 and CGE models. These plates are designed to provide a stable and versatile platform for attaching a variety of accessories to your Celestron equatorial mount. They promise to extend your mounting capabilities, offering a solution for those who need to attach extra equipment for astrophotography, visual observing, or even carrying additional power supplies.

I was drawn to these mounting plates because I was struggling with a growing collection of astrophotography gear. I needed a way to securely attach a guide scope, a dew heater controller, and a small battery pack to my Celestron CGE mount without creating a precarious balancing act. The promise of a sturdy and reliable platform to expand my mounting capabilities seemed like the perfect solution to my organizational woes.

Upon unboxing the Celestron Universal Mounting Plate (specifically the CGE version), I was immediately impressed by the apparent heft and solid construction. The plate felt substantial in my hands, giving me confidence that it would indeed provide a stable base for my accessories. The black finish was clean and professional, and the pre-drilled holes looked precisely machined.

Compared to trying to jury-rig my own mounting solutions or relying on flimsy, universal accessory bars, the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates stood out as a purpose-built solution. I had considered a few generic dovetail plates, but they lacked the specific hole patterns and robust construction that I felt confident Celestron could deliver. I chose this product specifically because of Celestron’s reputation for quality astronomy equipment.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The plate certainly looked the part, but the true test would be in the field, under the weight of my equipment. I hoped that these plates would deliver on their promise of stability and versatility, allowing me to streamline my astrophotography setup and spend more time capturing the cosmos.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Celestron Universal Mounting Plates to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates came during a weekend astrophotography trip to a dark sky site about two hours from my home. I mounted the plate to my Celestron CGE equatorial mount and then attached my guide scope, dew heater controller, and a small lithium battery pack. The mounting process was straightforward, utilizing the existing mounting points on the CGE mount.

The performance of the mounting plate under the clear, dark skies was impressive. Even with the added weight of my accessories, the mount felt remarkably stable. The plate held everything securely in place, even as I slewed the telescope across the sky to different targets. There was no noticeable flex or wobble, which gave me confidence in the overall stability of my setup.

The ease of use was also a pleasant surprise. I was initially concerned that attaching and detaching the accessories might be cumbersome, but the well-placed mounting holes and the sturdy construction of the plate made the process surprisingly quick and simple. I did not need any time to get used to using the plate.

After the first night of use, I was relieved to find no significant issues. The only minor annoyance was that the dew heater controller cable occasionally snagged on one of the mounting bolts. However, this was easily remedied by simply rerouting the cable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates for various astrophotography sessions, I can confidently say that it has held up remarkably well. The plate shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to varying weather conditions, including damp nights and dusty environments. The finish has remained intact, and the mounting points are still as solid as they were on day one.

The durability of the plate has exceeded my expectations. I initially had some concerns about the plate’s ability to withstand the weight of my equipment over extended periods, but it has proven to be more than capable. The plate remains perfectly flat and rigid, even under heavy loads.

Maintaining the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates is incredibly easy. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to the mounting bolts to ensure smooth operation, but that’s about it. It has been very easy to clean and maintain.

Compared to my previous attempts at rigging up my own mounting solutions, the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates is a night-and-day difference. It provides a level of stability and security that I simply couldn’t achieve with DIY methods. It has significantly streamlined my astrophotography workflow and allowed me to focus on capturing better images.

Breaking Down the Features of Celestron Universal Mounting Plates

Specifications

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates are designed to be compatible with specific Celestron equatorial mounts. The CG-5 Universal Mounting Plate is designed for use with the CG-5 equatorial mount (model 94213), while the CGE Universal Mounting Plate is designed for use with the CGE equatorial mount (model 94214). This compatibility is crucial for ensuring a secure and stable connection.

The plates are constructed from a high-quality metal alloy, providing exceptional strength and rigidity. This ensures that the plate can withstand the weight of accessories without flexing or bending. The material choice also contributes to the plate’s overall durability and resistance to wear and tear.

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates feature a series of pre-drilled and tapped mounting holes. This allows for the easy attachment of a wide range of accessories, such as guide scopes, dew heaters, power supplies, and counterweights. The versatility of the mounting hole pattern is a key selling point.

The specifications are relatively simple, focusing on compatibility and material quality. However, these specifications are essential for ensuring that the plates perform their intended function effectively and reliably. The emphasis on sturdy construction and versatile mounting options makes these plates a valuable addition to any Celestron telescope setup.

Performance & Functionality

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates perform their job exceptionally well. They provide a stable and secure platform for attaching accessories to your telescope mount. The plates are designed to distribute the weight of the accessories evenly, preventing any undue stress on the mount.

The biggest strength of the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates is their ease of use. The pre-drilled mounting holes make it easy to attach accessories quickly and securely. The plates are also incredibly versatile, accommodating a wide range of different accessories.

One area that could potentially be improved is the inclusion of more detailed instructions. While the mounting process is generally straightforward, a more comprehensive guide would be helpful for first-time users. Despite the lack of detailed instructions, the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates still meet and exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates is simple yet effective. The plates are constructed from a durable metal alloy and finished with a black coating. The black coating is both aesthetically pleasing and provides some degree of protection against corrosion.

The weight of the plates is a good balance between being substantial enough to provide stability and not being so heavy as to add excessive weight to the mount. The plates are comfortable to handle and easy to maneuver during the mounting process. The plates are user-friendly and have no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates are built to last. The high-quality materials and sturdy construction ensure that the plates can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care, these plates should last for many years.

The plates are also incredibly easy to maintain. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms that require special attention. Easy maintenance ensures a long product life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates do not come with any additional accessories. Their primary function is to provide a mounting platform for other accessories. However, the plates are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as guide scope rings, dew heater straps, and power supply holders.

The versatility of the mounting hole pattern allows for a high degree of customization. Users can configure their setups to suit their specific needs and preferences. The compatibility with popular accessories from other brands further enhances the versatility of the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates.

Pros and Cons of Celestron Universal Mounting Plates

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Who Should Buy Celestron Universal Mounting Plates?

The Celestron Universal Mounting Plates are perfect for astrophotographers and serious amateur astronomers who want to expand the capabilities of their Celestron CG-5 or CGE equatorial mounts. They are also ideal for those who need a stable and secure platform for attaching multiple accessories to their telescopes.

Anyone who is happy with a simple visual setup and doesn’t plan on adding many accessories can probably skip this product. If you only use your telescope for casual observing and don’t need to attach any extra equipment, then the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates might be overkill.

A must-have accessory for these plates is a good set of mounting bolts and washers. Also, consider cable ties or velcro straps to manage the cables for attached devices.

Conclusion on Celestron Universal Mounting Plates

In summary, the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates are a worthwhile investment for any serious astronomer who wants to enhance the capabilities of their Celestron CG-5 or CGE equatorial mount. They provide a stable, secure, and versatile platform for attaching a wide range of accessories, allowing users to optimize their setups for astrophotography, visual observing, or other specialized applications.

The price of $61.99 is justified by the quality of the materials, the sturdy construction, and the enhanced functionality that these plates provide. The value proposition is clear: these plates offer a significant improvement in stability and versatility compared to DIY mounting solutions.

I would personally recommend the Celestron Universal Mounting Plates to anyone who is serious about astronomy and wants to get the most out of their Celestron equatorial mount. They are a well-designed, well-built, and highly functional accessory that will significantly enhance your observing experience. If you’re looking to take your astrophotography or visual observing to the next level, these mounting plates are an essential addition to your toolkit. Invest in a set today and unlock the full potential of your Celestron telescope!